How stress is different today?

The trouble is, we were never built to be under the constant stress we’re under today.

Mortgage, boss, spouse, kids, technology, etc. all can be big stressors. It used to be “AHHHHH, a lion” stress/fear/maybe poop, then “Whew, I made it” no more fear and worry until the next predator.

Now, some of us are worried or stressed day and night. Sure some of us worry just some of the time. But most people worry (a form of stress) and IBS sufferers can experience that worry as an IBS attack.

Morning Diarrhea and Stress:

A lot of people have stress first thing in the morning.

The day is getting started, there are a million things to do. Your mind starts racing. The kids have to be at daycare or somewhere, you need to pack a lunch for them and maybe yourself, you STILL have to get ready. You have to get to work, the boss is a jerk, that project is due, and on and on. Then on the way to daycare, you run out of gas or get a flat. UGH! No wonder stress is so high.

I think that’s why a lot of people with IBS have stress induced diarrhea in the morning.

Stress, IBS and Bacteria:

A recent study showed that stress actually changes the kind of bacteria you have in your colon (bowels). Being stressed causes “good” bacteria to die off, and “bad” bacteria to grow and thrive. Having a bunch of unfriendly bacteria in your bowels might be one reason why stress can lead to IBS over time.

Yoga: This ancient practice is an excellent way to reduce stress, and also has other health benefits.

Excercise: (that dirty word) can help with stress AND IBS symptoms according to my gastroenterologist.

Daily meditation: there are many kinds of meditation. I’ve been working with mindfullness meditation and that helps a lot (except when I get lazy and don’t do it).

Therapy: Don’t be afraid to try getting some talk therapy with a psychologist. This can be a really good way to work things out, and get to the root of what’s bothering you.

The Serenity Prayer from my grandmother’s wall

One more that I’ll mention. My grandmother used to have a plaque on her wall with the serenity prayer. It can be a great way for many people to reduce stress. I’ll give you two versions. One is an affirmation for those that prefer that, and the other is a prayer.

Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

OR…

Serenity Affirmation This day may I have the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Either way, living your life this way can lead to a lot less stress, and just maybe, less IBS.